FY16 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program

This proposal is submitted on behalf of the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office and the forensic science laboratories in the State of Illinois. The laboratories represented in this proposal are the seven forensic science laboratories that comprise the Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Forensic Services-Forensic Sciences Command (FSC), the DuPage County Forensic Science Center (DCFSC) and the Northern Illinois Regional Crime laboratory (NIRCL). The consolidated state plan for the forensic science laboratories in Illinois has focused on improving the quality, accuracy and timeliness of forensic sciences services the criminal justice system and citizens of the State of Illinois. The consolidated plan has been in effect since 2002 and the continued demand for forensic sciences services dictates the need for the forensic science laboratories in Illinois to continue focusing their efforts and resources on improving the quality of forensic science services. Funding from previous years' National Forensic Sciences Improvement Act programs have been used to purchase new analytical equipment and/or upgrades for existing analytical equipment; to maintain laboratory accreditation standards by purchasing required external proficiency test; and to provide appropriate internal and external training opportunities to staff that assists with the end goal of improving the timeliness and quality of forensic services offered by the forensic sciences laboratories in Illinois. The aforementioned actions have had a positive impact on the labs' ability to address case backlogs, maintain required accreditation standards and improve forensic services. nca/ncf